ADHD Support for Parents
Last reviewed: March 2026
Written by: School of Diversity SEND Support Team
Topic: ADHD Support and Assessment
This guide brings together ADHD resources for parents, including recognising signs of ADHD, understanding assessments and accessing support in school.
ADHD support for parents involves understanding how attention, impulsivity and hyperactivity may affect a child’s learning and behaviour, accessing professional assessments and ensuring appropriate support is available in school.
Key Takeaways
- ADHD can affect attention, focus and behaviour.
- Parents often begin by recognising early signs of ADHD.
- Assessments help identify a child’s support needs.
- Schools may provide support through SEN support or EHCPs.
- Understanding support options helps parents advocate for their child.
Many parents begin exploring ADHD when they notice differences in their child’s attention, focus or behaviour. These differences can affect learning, social interaction and everyday routines.
This hub brings together guidance on ADHD signs, assessments and school support to help parents understand what steps they can take.
ADHD Resources for Parents
Recognising ADHD
- Signs Your Child May Have ADHD
ADHD Assessments
- ADHD Assessment for Children
- What Happens During an ADHD Assessment
- Private vs NHS ADHD Assessment
School Support
- ADHD Diagnosis and School Support
- Supporting Children with ADHD in School
- Talking to Schools About ADHD
SEND Support
- EHCP for ADHD
- How to Apply for an EHCP
Understanding ADHD
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental difference that may affect:
- attention and concentration
- impulsivity
- activity levels
- organisation and planning
Children with ADHD may experience the world differently, and support needs can vary.
Recognising Signs of ADHD
Parents often notice patterns such as:
- difficulty concentrating
- forgetfulness or disorganisation
- impulsive behaviour
- high levels of activity
- difficulty following instructions
Signs Your Child May Have ADHD
Understand early signs of ADHD and what they may mean for your child.
ADHD Assessments
Assessments help professionals understand how ADHD affects a child’s behaviour and learning.
Guides to ADHD assessments
ADHD Assessment for Children
Learn how ADHD assessments work and what to expect during the process.
What Happens During an ADHD Assessment
Understand each stage of the assessment and how professionals evaluate your child’s needs.
Private vs NHS ADHD Assessment
Compare assessment pathways to understand which option may be right for your child.
ADHD and School Support
Children with ADHD may receive support in school through:
- SEN support
- classroom strategies
- behaviour support approaches
- structured learning support
School support guidance
ADHD Diagnosis and School Support
Explore practical strategies to support learning and behaviour in the classroom.
Supporting Children with ADHD in School
Explore practical strategies to support learning and behaviour in the classroom.
Talking to Schools About ADHD
Learn how to communicate effectively with schools about your child’s needs.
ADHD and EHCP Support
Some children with ADHD may require additional support through an EHCP.
An EHCP may describe:
- attention and behaviour needs
- support required in school
- structured provision
EHCP guidance
EHCP for ADHD
Understand when additional support may be needed and how an EHCP can help.
How to Apply for an EHCP
Learn what an Education, Health and Care Plan is, how it works, and what support it can provide for your child.
ADHD and Behaviour Support
Children with ADHD may benefit from:
- structured routines
- clear expectations
- behaviour support strategies
- consistent guidance
Learn more
ADHD Behaviour Strategies for Children
Discover practical techniques to support behaviour and emotional regulation.
